Scrap SADA, establish civic body for Bir-Billing, demand panchayats
Residents of four panchayats — Bir, Chogan, Keyori and Gunehar — have urged Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to establish a Municipal Council for the fast-growing tourist destination of Bir-Billing. They also called for the immediate scrapping of the Special Area Development Authority (SADA), which they claimed had failed to meet the needs of the community.
The residents, who had previously submitted a joint memorandum to the CM last month, expressed their strong opposition to SADA’s functioning. They criticised the authority for mismanaging funds, alleging that only 10 per cent of the total funds allocated for Bir-Billing’s development are spent on the area, while the rest is diverted to the state exchequer. According to them, garbage disposal, drinking water and drainage issues have become major problems in Bir-Billing, yet SADA has neglected these pressing concerns.
For the past 15 years, SADA has been accused of failing to deliver on its promises, leaving the locals frustrated. The residents shared their grievances, stating that they are unable to even construct a cow shed without SADA’s approval. They have warned that if their demand for the replacement of SADA with a Municipal Council is not addressed, they will escalate their agitation.
The residents also raised concerns over the recent notification that extended SADA’s jurisdiction to more villages, claiming it was illegal because the panchayats were not consulted. They met with local Congress MLA Kishori Lal and Baijnath SDM, who expressed support for their cause.
Bir-Billing, renowned for its paragliding and eco-tourism, is becoming an increasingly popular destination. Recognized as one of the top-10 paragliding sites in the world, Bir hosted the Paragliding World Cup in 2023 and is now referred to as the ‘Paragliding Capital of India’. The area, known for its tranquillity, eco-tourism and spiritual retreats, is attracting adventure enthusiasts from across the globe.
Billing, the launch site for paragliding, sits in the meadows about 14 km north of Bir at 8,000 feet above sea level, offering spectacular flying experiences. The landing site is located about 4,500 feet from sea level at the southern edge of Bir. The growing international recognition of Bir-Billing highlights its significance as both a tourist and adventure sports hub.
